June is LGBTQ Pride Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by sharing these touching same-sex wedding photos.
At the end of the 20th century, gay weddings without legal recognition became more and more popular. The first nation, however, to provide a law for the marriage of same-sex people was the Netherlands (2001).
This marked a turning point in public approval for marriage equality, and now, there’s at least one country for every continent to allow gay and lesbian weddings.
From lavish country weddings to quick visits to the city hall, these photographers have captured some of the most emotional gay marriage moments. Scroll down to enjoy images that prove love knows no boundaries, and vote for your favorite ones!
Which Country First Legalized Same-Sex Marriage and When?
The honor of being the first country to legalize same-sex marriage goes to the Netherlands. In a landmark move, on April 1, 2001, the Netherlands made history by becoming the first nation in the world to grant same-sex couples the right to marry (via Pew Research Center).
This groundbreaking decision didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of years of advocacy, activism, and a shift in societal attitudes toward seeing LGBT weddings as something not only acceptable but also legitimate. The Dutch approach to marriage equality set a precedent for the rest of the world, inspiring a wave of change across various continents.
Since then, numerous countries have followed suit, recognizing the importance of equality and the right for all individuals to celebrate their love through marriage, regardless of gender.
Which Country Has More Recently Legalized Same-Sex Marriage?
The global movement for marriage equality continues as more countries are embracing the rights of same-sex couples. The most recent addition to this growing list is Nepal, where same-sex marriage was recognized on November 29, 2023, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in Asia (via Pink News).
According to Time Magazine, Estonia is set to join the ranks of countries legalizing same-sex marriage with the law scheduled to come into effect on January 1, 2024.
